An Evaluation of Chelation Therapy for Heavy Metal Toxicity and Enhancement of Detoxification Using Natural Alternatives with Special Reference to Developing Countries

Abstract

The objective of this research is to recommend inexpensive and readily available natural detox alternatives that have chelating characteristics for treating heavy metal poisoning, with special reference to Acute Aluminium Phosphide Poisoning (AAIPP), which is prevalent in most developing countries. The catalyst is the use of pesticides and herbicides to increase agricultural production, raising concerns over their effects on the health of farmers. Mercury, Lead, Chromium, Cadmium, and Arsenic are the most common toxic heavy metals that accumulate in the soft tissues of the body. Aluminium Phospide (AIP) is a metallic inorganic compound that mirrors the effects of such heavy metals. The medical treatment for this is chelation therapy, involving the administration of chelating agents to the body to extract heavy metals. Chelating agents are chemical compounds that bind iron, lead, or copper in the blood and are used to treat high concentration levels of these metals. The Molview Simulator is used for reviewing the molecular structure of the natural alternatives to determine their chelating characteristics and to select those that have ring-like structure(s) similar to chelating agents. These proposed alternatives are free from side effects, have no inherent dangers and are a rich source of minerals like magnesium. As an established medical treatment, Magnesium Sulphate is used to alleviate mid-range symptoms of AAIPP.